One of the key issues that impacts on most business owners and managers is the issue of Life Balance.
This issue is relevant at all times in our lives and if the area has not been reviewed recently, is an invaluable exercise to undertake when life-changing events such as retirement are contemplated.
One of the tools that can be used to assist us to answer the question “How do I know if I am successful?” is to undertake a review of Life Balance. There is no definitive answer as to what constitutes success and each person needs to define the key elements for themselves however the model that we use contains 6 key areas:
- Family
- Health
- Social Life
- Money
- Mental
- Personal Philosophy
Success in each of these area is important however is more important that success be balanced between all areas. If these are considered to be segments of a wheel, that wheel won’t be able to turn unless that balance exists.
You will note that we dont include Work as one of the elements but consider it the road that this Wheel travels along, and which can provide many of the Life Balance elements.
Imagine a zero at the centre and a ten on the circumference and then subjectively score where you stand in each segment.
If you score very well in some segments but low in others it indicates a need to develop strategies to lift your score in those areas to bring the wheel into balance.
Don’t score yourself based on the time involved but rather the quality of each area. If for example you did not score well in the area of Health, what action plans can you put in place?
- A Medical Checkup
- Sign Up With The Local Gym
- Commence A Diet
- Regular Walking Program
- A Combination Of Any Of The Above
It is up to you to select something that you are comfortable with. Why not involve a friend or family member? Not only does it provide a wonderful support mechanism, it also means that you can work on two Life Balance areas at the one time.
It is important though that specific measurable targets be set. Deciding that I will exercise more is likely to be of little help. Set a specific measurable target. I will walk for 40 minutes at least 4 times per week. At the end of the week it is easy to know whether or not you have achieved your objective. Why not chart your progress? Remember it takes about 12 weeks to form a habit.
